Military

Further Reading

F-104D Starfighter

The only new feature on the F-104D was the addition of a rear cockpit, a basic component to most trainers. To make room for the cockpit, the M-61 Vulcan had to be removed.

The F-104D entered operational service in November, 1958, first with the 476th Tactical Fighter Squadron at George AFB. Soon thereafter, TAC's three other F-104C squadrons became equipped with the F-104D.

The Air Force accepted 16 in FY 59 and 5 in FY 60 (2 monthly from November, 1958 through August 1959).

Production ended in September 1959 with the delivery of the last F-104D.

Built in the United States for MAP, the F-104E was accepted by the Air Force (20 in FY 60 and 10 in FY 61) for West German pilot training in Europe. The F-104E closely resembled the F-104D but featured upward ejection seats. Until retrofitted, most USAF F-104s (D models included) had the troublesome downward ejection seat.

F-104Ds phased out of TLC's active inventory along with, and in the same manner as the F-104Cs. In 1967, the D model, as well as the C, equipped the ANG 198th Tactical Fighter Squadron in Puerto Rico.